Sheffield United agree deal for Bury hit-man Clarke

Sheffield United have agreed a deal to sign Bury striker Leon Clarke, sources close to the club have told HITC Sport.

New Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder has been chasing Clarke most of the summer as he looks to bring in a big target man to his squad.

Bury’s Leon Clarke (L) and Rochdale’s Callum Camps in action

The Blades have already seen two bids rejected by Bury for Clarke with the Shakers reluctant to lose last season's top scorer to their League One rivals.

Clarke scored 18 goals for Bury last season, but the club have been facing to fight to keep hold of him as they need to slash their wage bill.

Leon Clarke celebrates after scoring the second goal for Bury from the penalty spot

The 31-year-old is understood to be keen on a move to Bramall Lane with Bury boss David Flitcroft admitting he left out the striker from their friendly last weekend because the player's head had been turned by the interest from Sheffield United.

Wilder is keen to finalise his squad with the new season less than two weeks away and the club have made a third bid for Clarke which has been accepted by Bury.